Australia Household Spending Rises 0.8 Percent in June

Australian household spending rose 0.8 percent in June 2026, according to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. This increase followed a 1.2 percent rise in May and a 1.0 percent decline in April, contributing to an overall 0.7 percent increase in spending volumes for the June quarter. This marks the third consecutive quarter of volume growth.

Discretionary spending rose 1.2 percent in June, primarily fueled by the transport and recreation and culture sectors. New vehicle sales increased by 3.0 percent, with a significant shift toward electric vehicles as consumers responded to rising fuel prices. Spending on performing arts, live entertainment, and electronic goods drove a 1.4 percent increase in the recreation and culture category, while gambling activity likely rose due to major sporting events.

Air travel spending also recovered to pre-March levels after previous disruptions caused by a Middle East conflict. Overall, the growth in the June quarter was supported by increased expenditure on alcoholic beverages, tobacco, furnishing, household equipment, and hotels, cafes and restaurants.